Anny's thread reminded me to ask this -- what's the best way to determine the age of a dog?

I brought Bill home from my mom's farm. He was a "walk-on" dog. Just showed up one day and decided he liked the amenities enough to stay. Her vet guessed him at around six years old, but I'm seriously thinking he's more around ten.

I love him to pieces, but he's a bit of an odd guy. He can be active and run with Shep, but not as fast or for anywhere near as long or often. Oftentimes he just stands and stares at nothing without moving for many minutes. Not tense, like he's watching something -- just kind of zoned out.

How can I get a good estimate of how old he really is? His eyes and ears are clear and good.

Hi Lizzlee,

I think you are supposed to count the rattles on their tail and then multiply by 10 and then divide by seven, or something like that.

Also, I am VERY familiar with the blank stare. It's gas.

"Ta Friggin da"

Oh, man, that explains a lot. An Early Warning System, if you will. Good to know.

Shelters and veterinarians can tell by looking at the teeth. No clue what to look for.

I'm sorry PG, I thought you knew. This dog's from Kentucky. He ain't got no teeth. Forever young?

Just kidding!

Aahhh... maybe you can tell by the tobacco rings around his gums.

Cut dog in half.

count rings.




no one cares age of dead dog.

Ha! I was about to say, "core sample."

I don't think there is a way beyond instinct based on energy level, distance from puppy-like behavior according to breed, and appearance.

Post a pic!

I've posted this before, but I'm always happy to post it again!

He is so cute

He doesn't seem to respond too well to his name, so we are experimenting. He responds pretty well to "Dawg!" Okay to "Marlin," a little bit to "Marley."

Any other suggestions?

Don't suggest "Treat" -- he couldn't care less.

"Stain"?

I'm sure I have told this joke before. Then you can yell out the window "COME, STAIN!"

Stains!!

>

I just fed my dog, Max, Comfortis - a new flea pill competing with Frontline. Anybody tried it?